Method transfer to the EXTREVA ASE Accelerated Solvent Extractor

Importance of the topic

Accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) is a powerful sample preparation technique that reduces solvent usage and extraction time compared with traditional methods such as Soxhlet extraction. The Thermo Scientific EXTREVA ASE system extends ASE capabilities by integrating gas-assisted extraction, parallel processing of up to 16 samples, and automated evaporation and concentration, making it highly relevant for environmental, food, and industrial laboratories where throughput and reproducibility are critical.

Objectives and Article Overview

This white paper presents the method transfer process from the Thermo Scientific Dionex ASE 350 system to the new EXTREVA ASE system. It outlines sample cell preparation, method configuration options (extraction only, evaporation only, or integrated workflows), and provides recommended parameters for the analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soil.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The EXTREVA ASE instrument employs gas-assisted solvent extraction at 200 psi and temperatures up to 200°C with six solvent choices. Sample cells are packed with sample and dispersant in stainless steel cells of various volumes (10–100 mL), processed in batches of four in parallel. Extraction parameters include flow-controlled dynamic extraction, automated solvent rinsing, and a built-in solvent preheater. The system also automates in-cell cleanup and evaporation to fixed volumes (0.3–1.6 mL) or dryness using AI-driven machine vision for endpoint detection.

Main Results and Discussion

In a case study analyzing 16 US EPA priority PAHs in fortified soil, the EXTREVA ASE workflow achieved recoveries between 78% and 108% with RSDs below 10%, meeting regulatory criteria (EPA 70–130%, industry 80–120%). A direct comparison with the Dionex ASE 350 coupled to the Rocket evaporator demonstrated equivalent or improved performance, notably enhanced reproducibility across channels and reduced total analysis time for four samples to approximately 35–45 minutes depending on cell size.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The EXTREVA ASE system streamlines sample preparation by:

• Integrating extraction and evaporation in a single automated sequence
• Supporting parallel processing of up to 16 samples
• Reducing solvent consumption and analyst intervention
• Delivering consistent recoveries and low variability

This makes it well suited for environmental monitoring, food safety testing, QA/QC laboratories, and industrial process analysis.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Ongoing trends include applying AI for enhanced endpoint detection, expanding solvent mixtures for broader analyte ranges, and integrating online cleanup modules. Future developments may focus on coupling ASE with high-throughput LC/MS or GC/MS workflows for ultra-trace analysis, disposable microcell formats for hazardous matrices, and real-time monitoring of extraction efficiency.

Conclusion

The method transfer from the Dionex ASE 350 to the EXTREVA ASE system preserves analytical performance while offering greater automation, flexibility, and throughput. Laboratories upgrading to EXTREVA ASE can expect reduced hands-on time, lower solvent usage, and consistent, high-quality data across a wide range of sample types.

Reference

The white paper refers to a series of Thermo Scientific ASE application notes detailing methods for PAHs, OCPs, PCBs, fats, and leachables, including:

• AN313: Extraction of PAHs from Environmental Samples by ASE
• AU313: ASE—GC-MS Analysis and Detection of PAHs in Soil
• AN341: Extraction of Base/Neutrals and Acids (BNAs) from Large-Volume Samples by ASE
• AN317: Extraction of BNAs using ASE
• AN1025: Simultaneous Extraction of PAHs and PCBs from Environmental Samples by ASE
• AN320: Extraction of Chlorinated Pesticides by ASE
• AN332: ASE of Pesticide Residues in Food Products
• AB152: Extraction of OCPs from Oyster Tissue by ASE
• AN316: Extraction of PCBs from Environmental Samples by ASE
• CAN121: Determination of PCBs in Soils and Solid Waste by ASE and GC-MS/MS
• AN342: Determination of PCBs in Large-Volume Fish Tissue by ASE
• AN321: Determination of Unbound Fat in Food Matrices by ASE
• AN340: Determination of Fat in Dried Milk Products by ASE
• AN329: Determination of Total Fat in Powdered Infant Formula by ASE
• AU194: Determination of Sulfate and Inorganic Chloride in Denatured Ethanol by RFIC
• AN1108: Comparison of Soxhlet and ASE for Leachable and Extractable Analysis of Packing Material